Time to get uncomfortable shit over with.

"What's this all about?"

Laxus just stood stiffly in the middle of Gildarts's now much neater common room, hands at his sides.

Gildarts can't help but study him closely, trying to understand what's going on in that thick-headed male.

Out of nowhere, Laxus took a long breath, as if steeling himself for something, then finally met Gildarts's eyes squarely.

"When I was under the influence of the disease, I realized that...I...hurt those I don't wish to see ever harmed." Laxus was standing as straight as an arrow and he seemed to be forcing each word out.

"Who?"

"No one impo-"

"Look Laxus! It's clearly important! You wouldn't be here stuttering if you were-"

"UGH! Fine then! You're one of those people Gildarts!"

Stunned, Gildarts blinked a few times, then took a step towards the youngster before coming to a stop.

"Laxus. . ." He suddenly had flash backs, about the fights and arguments they have been having since Laxus had joined the guild.

Then he really thinks about what Lucy had told him of Laxus's loss of control, really thought about what Laxus had just said to him.

"Look…Laxus . . .I…" This should be easy, he can't help but think hazily, he should have the words for this; it's not like he usually has trouble talking, but the words don't come.

"Don't. Don't say it. I can't handle a r-" Laxus abruptly hisses, causing Gildarts to reach out and touch his arm, and Laxus merely flinches like he's been slapped.

"Don't touch me Gildarts..!"

"Laxus just list-"

"FUCK OFF OLD MAN!"